Stacks of old books can add character anywhere in your house. They don’t necessarily need to be packed away in a bookcase. I’ve always got a few books stacked here and there, they can help add height when you need it for a display area.

The above is on a dresser in a bedroom.

Below are a couple of rooms by Darryl Carter with stacks of books on display.

I also love how these random stacks of books look next to the fireplace in this room. (image from lonny.com)